LAKEPORT,Calif. (AP) — The Latest on fires in California (all times local): 7:20 a.m. A massive blaze that killed two firefighters and…
LAKEPORT,Calif. (AP) — The Latest on fires in California (all times local):
7:20 a.m.
A massive blaze that killed two firefighters and four civilians has now destroyed 884 homes. That’s up from 823 homes previously reported destroyed.
California fire officials said Tuesday the wildfire burning near Redding, California for more than a week has scorched 172 square miles (445 square kilometers).
But fire crew have gained some ground and increased containment to almost 30 percent.
It is believed to be the ninth most destructive fire in state history.
More than 27,000 people remained evacuated from their homes although another 10,000 were allowed to return Monday as fire crews reinforced lines on the western end of the blaze.
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6:55 a.m.
Firefighters from across the United States are being sent to California to help crews stretched to the limit as they battle 17 wildfires across the state.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection says firefighters from 10 states are already helping and another six states will send resources this week.
The agency says the out-of-state fire crews will relieve exhausted California firefighters who have been working non-stop for two weeks.
More than 50,000 people remained under mandatory evacuation orders Tuesday in Northern California, where a deadly blaze has destroyed more than 800 homes.
Another two wildfires burning about 14 miles (22 kilometers) apart are threatening 10,000 homes.
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11:00 p.m.
Twin wildfires in Northern California are threatening some 10,000 homes and posing yet another struggle for firefighters already stretched thin by a summer of horrific and deadly blazes.
The fires straddling Mendocino and Lake counties have burned seven homes and forced the evacuation of Lakeport and small surrounding communities.
About 100 miles north, a fire that has killed six people continues to threaten the Redding area.
The so-called Carr Fire has destroyed 818 homes and 311 outbuildings. State fire spokesman Scott McLean says it’s the ninth most destructive wildfire in state history.
Some 12,000 firefighters are battling the blaze. Fire officials say they’re making progress against the fire, which is 23 percent contained.
More than 27,000 people remain evacuated.
